Santa delivers gifts from fire truck

Published 12/24 2012 09:39PM

Updated 12/25 2012 12:09PM

CHAMPAIGN -- Before he hopped on his sleigh, Santa made a few early stops. Santa had some unique helpers: members of the Eastern Prairie Fire Department. The delivered toys to sick and less fortunate children around the city.

'Twas the night before Christmas and all around here, there were sightings of Santa spreading holiday cheer.

"A lot of these kids aren't sure if Santa's going to come to their house so when they do get to see him and Santa gives them a gift, it's just a special feeling when you see their face light up," said Eastern Prairie Assistant Fire Chief Jason Brown.

Instead of twelve reindeer and a shiny red sleigh, he came in a fire truck on Christmas Eve day.

"Kids that don't get to be fortunate enough to be home for Christmas or that are in the hospitals and sick, it's something to brighten their day by seeing Santa and getting presents," said Katie Hyatt.

With presents for children and candy canes too, he came with a message for them and for you.